Proposed Bangladesh-India railway link
Tuesday, 28 April 2015
The proposed Bangladesh-India railway link project is not being materialized which is disappointing. If the project is implemented, it will be mutually beneficial for both countries and their citizens. It will add more comfort to journey by land between India and Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh share a long standing relationship. Every year, thousands of Bangladeshis travel to India on various purposes like business, tourism, medical treatment and study and the number is increasing with each passing year. Railway is certainly better than road transport as it is safer, cheaper and more comfortable. The railway link project of India-Bangladesh was finalized in 2010 but the project is yet to go underway. In all likelihood, like most other project files, it is gathering dust at government offices. It would be unfortunate if it is really so, because demand for travel to India is on the rise and the government should pay due attention to the issue. Let us hope that the project will be implemented soon to further consolidate friendly ties and enhance economic cooperation between Bangladesh and India.
Roksana Sultana
Baridhara DOHS, Dhaka.